Art by Yasmine Reza is a comedy focusing on a group of three friends, whose close friendship is tested and challenged by a painting. It's not an ordinary painting. It's a work of art that is simply entitled 'White'. The way all three characters interpret the seemingly bland idea creates a blank canvas that explores the blank canvas of the mind in a comedic way that is not afraid to be blunt and mindful at the same time.
A performance that in a creatively artistic way is relatable to today's audience
The set itself is very simple. Three chairs, two low tables, the canvas that 'White' is displayed on and the wall on the stage having a simple mechanism of beige fabric being unhooked to suggest different locations with a different painting under each panel that matches the characters' unique personalities. Although some of the script has had to be changed in order to make an all male script work for a female joining the cast, it has become a performance that in a creatively artistic way is relatable to today's audience.
Sophie Dearlove's Colette draws us in to her subtle vulnerability as she gradually lets us into how she sees 'White'. Her honest approach to Colette enables us to connect with something that makes her happy, yet her complicated relationship with Marc makes us question the status to the relationship itself. Does she secretly fancy Marc? Does he secretly fancy her? If this is the case with both characters, the idea of the friendship getting out of hand over the painting becomes deeper than the original text suggests. Dearlove handles the deflective nature of Sophie in a very sensitive way that leaves us wanting more of her.
Neil James plays the blatantly arrogant Marc, who sees things in a more pedantic way than most. The energetic approach he takes with this character adds to the conflict between all three friends well. Especially as he is not afraid to challenge the painting, adding to the drama within the comedy well. At times James has an element of Arthur Lowe's pompous infamous Captain Mannering about him. This in turn makes the tension within the enclosed space rise and is fascinating to watch.
Finally, Duncan Henderson's Yvan creates an element of what can happen if you are trying to heal from a traumatic time in your life and are easily triggered by events that can mirror the trauma experienced. Henderson really envelops the lost boy element of Ivan, who is trying in an odd sort of way to find himself through the lead up to his own wedding. Henderson enables a relationship with all watching him immediately within the first few seconds of seeing Ivan. His performance has a real sense of rawness and an emotional vulnerability that is powerful to watch and creates a strong sense of comedy.
Under the detailed direction of Roger Kay, Art becomes a dark comedy that is engaging and interesting to watch. The real dynamic is taking an all male piece to a new level to a modern audience which is extremely worth watching.
